Academic Information

Campus Information

Ten Tips on Applying for a Non-Immigrant Visa

You may apply for your visa up to 120 days prior to your
start date. Please check the U.S. Embassy website for
information about how to schedule your visa appointment. During
the visa interview, the consular officer will be examining your
application. To help this process go smoothly, please keep in
mind the following information.

1. Ties to your Home Country

Under U.S. law, all applicants for non-immigrant visas, such
as student visas are viewed as intended immigrants until they
can convince the consular officer that they are not. You must be
able to show that you have reasons for returning to your home
country that are stronger than those for remaining in the United
States. Ties to your home country are things that bind you to
your homeland such as family, job, place of residence, future
financial prospects, etc.

2. Documentation

Evidence of sufficient funds to cover expenses as well as
evidence of scholastic preparation may be requested. Be sure you
include your acceptance letter from Central Methodist
University, your scholarship offer, financial statements, and
your sponsor's affidavit of support.

3. Language

The interview will be conducted in English and not in your
native language. It might be helpful to practice English
conversation with a native speaker before the interview to
develop a higher comfort level using the language.

4. Speak for Yourself

You will not be able to bring parents or family members with
you during your interview. The consular officer wants to
interview you, so you must be prepared to speak on your own
behalf.

5. Know the Program and How it Fits your Career Plans

If you are not able to explain why you are interested in
studying a particular program in the United States, you might
not convince the consular officer that you are indeed planning
to study, rather than to immigrate. You should be able to
explain how studying in the U.S. relates to your future
professional career when you return home.

6. Be Brief

Due to a large volume of visa applications, consular officers
are under pressure to conduct a quick and efficient interview.
They must be able to assess your potential and make a decision
based upon the impression they form of you during the first few
minutes of your interview. Speak clearly, and give clear,
concise answers to the questions.

7. Not all Countries are Equal

Applicants from countries with a history of terrorist
activities may encounter additional scrutiny. Countries
experiencing economic problems or applicants from countries
where students have remained in the U.S. as immigrants may have
more difficulty obtaining visas.

8. Employment

Your main purpose in coming to the United States should be to
study, not for the chance to work after graduation. While a
number of students do work over the course of their studies,
such employment requires authorization and is incidental to the
main purpose of completing their education.

9. Apply in your Home Country

Applicants for student visas should apply at the U.S. Embassy
with jurisdiction over their place of permanent residence.

10. Maintain a Positive Attitude

Do not argue with a consular officer. If you are denied a
student visa, you may request the reason you were denied in
writing, and ask the officer for a list of documents to bring to
a future appointment in order to overcome the denial.